There is an interplay between rank and equality among the five men who meet in van Rijn's Winged Cross penthouse. None of them is an hereditary aristocrat although those also exist in Technic civilization. Three men sit. Two approach. Of the three that are seated, one, the ensign, stands to greet the newcomers. The ensign's captain, Per Stenvik, who has recently gained master's rank, remains seated because he is unwell but apologizes. Nicholas van Rijn, merchant prince, does not stand during the entire story but wallows deeper into his lounger. The narrator bows to him.
The ensign contradicts van Rijn, insisting that his captain needs at least until the Day of the Dead to recover and surely then should stay home for Christmas? Van Rijn, putting on his usual act, wails that he is misunderstood.
Everyone knows his rank and everyone speaks his mind. Thus, the business of the Solar Spice & Liquors Company and of the Polesotechnic League is conducted. We know all this from sixteen of the forty-three instalments in Poul Anderson's Technic History.
1 comment:
Kaor, Paul!
Some visitors might have been offended Old Nick did not rise to greet them--but, as we know he is sui generis! And his self-pitying lamentations about being a poor, lonely, fat old man struggling for a few hard earned credits to support his impoverished old age always makes me smile!
Ad astra! Sean
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